Jennifer McKinney, who was born Margaret Jennifer McKinney on January 5 1936 in Penrith, to William and Catherene McKinney, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 23 in Windsor, Ontario.
Jennifer’s life began surrounded by the fells, becks, and stone walls of Cumbria. Through her life on three continents, Jennifer’s heart was always at Widewath Mill Farm where she spent the happiest times of her childhood visiting and working in the fields.
“Jenny Wren” to her beloved father, Jennifer felt the loss when he emigrated to South Africa to establish a new life for his family.
After reuniting and living in Port Elizabeth for some of her young adult years, Jennifer emigrated to Vancouver, Canada.
She went on to live in Montreal and then Toronto, which she loved, for most of her life. When Jennifer moved to Seasons Belle River retirement home a few years ago, she enjoyed unfailing and devoted care from her daughter, Lise.
Jennifer was curious and passionate about learning; from classes at the University of Toronto to volunteering as a docent, or guide, at the Art Gallery of Ontario, to her ardent love of reading.
A loyal patron of Little Theatre in Toronto, Jennifer was often accompanied by her daughter Karin.
Always fiercely independent and determined, in all aspects of life, Jennifer was an enthusiastic solo traveller delighting in the museums and art galleries of London.
She enjoyed a passion for Formula One racing ignited by her son Chris. In younger years, she and Chris were companions on canoe trips all over the world.
Jennifer possessed a work ethic to be admired and was an inspiration to her children in all that she achieved.
Her grandchildren know they were loved by her and how proud she was of each of them.
Jennifer is survived by her children Lise Anhorn, Chris Wesenhagen, Karin Borland, and her grandchildren Laura Jaarsma, Emily Roussell, Cassandra Mellow, Graeme Borland and Malcolm Borland. Also her beloved great-grandaughter Georgia Jaarsma.
She was pre-deceased by her sister-in-law Elizabeth McKinney and is survived by her brothers Bill McKinney and David McKinney, nieces Catherene, Allison, Carolyn, and nephew Mark.
To share memories of Jennifer, the family has asked people to visit simplechoicecremation.ca
